Make up Do and Don'ts in Pregnancy
Most pregnant women know that what they put in their bodies affect their baby, but some do not realize that what they put on their bodies can have just as much affect. Just like there are certain things to avoid in pregnancy, too much caffeine, or certain types of fish, there are certain chemicals and beauty products that are not going to be healthy for their baby.
One of the reasons we do not think about it is that most of what we put on our skin is exterior, so we think that since we are putting it on the outside it can't affect the inside. However, what you put on your skin can pass through the skin barrier and be absorbed by the body, whether through the blood stream or otherwise. Because the baby in your body is reliant on your body, blood, etc. to develop, it is essential that you pay attention to what is in the lotions and make-ups you are putting on your body each day.
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The fact is, everything you eat, apply, or come into contact with may affect your baby. Most of the time your typical lotions and make-up products are going to be relatively safe, but there are some things that should be avoided. So, when you shop the beauty aisle, or start your skin care regimen, make sure that you read the labels and watch out for the following potentially harmful to the fetus ingredients: (one thing you should note is that what is bad for the fetus is also bad when breastfeeding, so it is wise to avoid it then as well.)
Retinoids: These are very powerful chemicals that are found in some anti-aging moisturizers. While they are known for improving skin tons and reducing wrinkles, they are something expectant mothers should strive to stay away from. Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that speeds up cell division (quickening your skin's renewal) and prevent skin collagen from breaking down. However, there have been studies that have shown that high doses of vitamin A during pregnancy can be harmful to an unborn child.
Oral retinoids: Many acne treatments have oral retinoids in them, which are known for causing birth defects, and thus should be avoided during pregnancy.
Salicylic acids: It is basically best to avoid Salicylic acid because even the mild acid used to treat certain skin disorders, and in cleaners to get rid of dead cells can be harmful to a baby. Salicylic acid is in the aspirin family, so it can also help reduce inflammation or redness, but can also cause birth defects and complications. BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is a form of salicylic acid and is used in some topical exfoliants to reverse signs of aging. An occasional use, such as in a toner can be safe, but it is always better safe than sorry. Be very certain to avoid face and body peels containing salicylic acid.
Other labeled ingredients to avoid include the following:
Differin (adapelene)
Retin-A, Renova (tretinoin)
Retinoic acid
Retinol
Retinyl linoleate
Retinyl palmitate
Tazorac and avage (Tazarotene)
Salicylic acid
Beta hydroxy acid
BHA
So, just check and make sure that the skin care products you pick are not going to be harmful for your baby by knowing what to look out for. If you have any sort of questions about whether or not something is safe, ask your health care professional or dermatologist.
